Valleys and Villages Hike - Bayford Circular walk - Hertfordshire - 18km

Join us for a scenic countryside walk through the rolling hills and hidden valleys of East Hertfordshire

Distance: 18 km
Ascent: 300 m
Time: Approx. 6 hours including breaks
Grade: 2.5/5 – Moderate - Challenging
Terrain: Mix of hills, valleys, woodland trails and open countryside Accessible by train: Yes
Start time: 9.30
Finish time: Approx 3.30pm
Start/End Point: Bayford Station Brickenden, Bayford Ln, Station SG13 8PH

Cost £12.50 PP Plus Meetup fees OR pay by CARD

The Hike:
This rewarding circular walk explores some of the most picturesque hidden corners of East Hertfordshire. Starting from Bayford Station, we quickly leave the tracks behind and venture into quiet woodland, field paths and ancient byways, passing through a tapestry of rolling countryside, shady copses and charming villages.

Our first leg takes us through Bayford Wood and past the historic Bayford Hall, with sweeping views over the valley before we meander westward to the tranquil village of Essendon. Here, you’ll get a sense of Hertfordshire’s rural heritage, with timber-framed houses and a beautiful church nestled among quiet lanes. The route then continues through the undulating countryside of Bedwell Park, weaving past old farms and peaceful tracks.

Highlights:
- Panoramic views across the Hertfordshire countryside
- Pretty villages and historic estates including Essendon and Bayford
- Varied terrain including woodland, field paths, and country lanes

What to Wear and Bring:
- Our walks go ahead in all weather, so dress appropriately. Always carry a waterproof jacket.
- Check the forecast and bring sun cream, a hat, or sunglasses for warm days, and waterproofs, a warm hat, and gloves for cold or wet days.
- Wear trousers or leggings to reduce the risk of tick bites and nettle stings. Avoid denim or cotton.
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential. Open-toe shoes are unsuitable.
- Bring at least 1.5 litres of water, lunch, and snacks, as there may be no opportunities to buy food or drinks along the route.
- Public toilets may not be available on the route.

Sign-Up Form:
If you haven’t completed a form this year or your circumstances have changed, please fill out the sign up form before attending. Participation is not allowed without a completed form, as this ensures we understand your needs and can maintain group safety. (link can be found in Ts&Cs section of the website - or cut and paste below into your browser) Form link: [https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058 ](https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058)

Preparation and Fitness:
You are responsible for your own health and safety. Ensure you can hike continuously for the duration specified. Dress appropriately, please bring the required gear and carry any personal medications. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to join the walk.

Our Guides:
Our experienced, qualified leaders are skilled in navigation, first aid, and outdoor leadership. Each route is carefully planned to match the advertised grade, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience.

Additional Information: Dogs are not permitted on our walks. Adventure Women UK is an all-female activity group, and participants must be over 18.
Our events are advertised on other platforms, the number of "guest" booked on include attendees from other platforms. If the walk is full, you can join the website waiting list here

Walk Grades: For details on walk difficulty levels, visit the Walk Grades Section at[ https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1](https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1)

Important Note: By RSVPing “Yes” to any event, you agree to the group’s terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs

Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, trips, falls, drowning, exposure to extreme weather, equipment failure, and medical emergencies, which can result in serious injury or death. By participating, you voluntarily assume all such risks. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs.